This first trip in Lulu gave us the opportunity to test her out and start to get organized. Everything had been found shoved into drawers and cabinets, and my OCD was in heaven as I found a place for everything. We love this new rig – everything in it, except for the sofa, is exactly what we wanted. It’s not a typical motorhome with a straight hall from front to back. Instead, it has a clear division of rooms that make it more home-like. We truly couldn’t be happier. Except for the sofa, which will be replaced eventually with a recliner loveseat.

Dave pulled out his fishing rod and worked on his rusty skills. Sage kept him company, as did a Mama duck with six little two-day old chicks. We watched them every day, as they learned to swim, walk and manage their everyday life of survival. We enjoyed watching them grown more confident with every step.

I fell in love with a bird I kept seeing. All black with a red wing. It drove me nuts until I finally looked it up. it’s called a red winged blackbird. Go figure. And I’m proud to say that, for once, I made it the entire trip without a single mosquito bite. Maybe I’m getting less sweet in my old age…

We met a great couple, Rod and Bonnie, who are both ex-military and have been full-timing for nine years. Bonnie is also a disabled vet and we had some great conversations about full-timing with a chronic illness. It’s nice to see that I’m not alone and that it can be done, with a lot of patience and some concessions on my part. They also gave us great ideas on road trips and places to see. They have been to see the largest ball of yarn in the world. They call it their -est trips – the longest, biggest, baddest in the land. Thanks to them, we’ve gotten some great books to get us started. Off the Beaten Path and 300 of the Country’s most scenic drives are two of them.

Sitting at a campfire every night and watching the sunsets are the most soothing way to end an evening. I felt so at peace and remembered what I loved about camping..ok, glamping. I love the smell of the fire, listening to it crackle, while Sage lays in her bed and we talk about the day. No stress, no worries, no demands. Just peace. I was happier than I’ve been in a long time.

So, not much to report on our Maiden Voyage, except that we know we made the right decision in purchasing Lulu. Even the driving is enjoyable, instead of the constant stress of towing a fifth wheel. For us, this was the right decision, and I know that we’ll be happy in Lulu for a long time to come. What did I learn this week? Home really is where your heart is.

Next stop, Hilton Head in June for a week. It’ll be Sage’s first time at the beach, so this should be fun. Stay tuned and thanks for sharing our voyage with us!